4 Ways to be a mom on trend (without looking like your kids... or their babysitter)

Jennifer Isenman is a freelance writer, humor columnist and voice behind the blog The Suburban Jungle. In addition to writing for various publications, she recently hosted the "Me Time" challenge for Nickelodeon’s ParentConnect and is al...

Not your mama's style

Defining your style as a mom and beyond can be a tricky proposition. You don't have to be a frump, but you sure don't want to look like you're trying too hard either. Here's some fashion advice to help you be the trendsetting-iest mama on the block!

Cool mom

I remember being about 14 years old, and thinking how moms who wore their EG socks, Reebok high-tops, oversized v-necks from the Limited, and their Farlow jeans were the coolest moms on the planet. Yes, I know I'm dating myself, but I still remember thinking how fun it must have been to wear the same stuff as your daughter.

I never realized that other moms were giving her the judgmental eye, wondering, "What the hell is she thinking?!" Now that I'm on the other side, I realize that nobody wants to be that mom. At the same time, however, every mom wants to feel hip and stylish. Becoming a mom doesn't mean you have to trade your spaghetti strap tanks for sweater sets, or your low riders for those super-unflattering, high-waisted mom jeans. Nooooo, never! We don't want that.

Instead, we offer four hip tips, so you can be on trend without looking like you should be hanging out at the mall.

Here's the skinny

With a simple pair of pumps, skinny jeans are fabulous for evening, while skinny capris with a trendy cork wedge or sandal look perfect for day. Yes, they're both cute with Converse sneakers as well, but it may look like you're trying a bit too hard to land a prom date. Remember, the more height you add, the longer your legs will look.

Also, try going one size up, so that the jeans fit without being super snug. Wear something unstructured on top, or a tank a blazer, to balance the outfit.

And be honest with yourself when you're in the dressing room. Skinny jeans are simply not for every figure. Flattering pants that fit you well are always in style.